Every holiday season, it is great to see British Columbians take time to help others who struggle with getting basic necessities. This holiday season, not only can readers contribute to their local food banks and charities, but they can also send a message to our provincial government to end the child support clawback that takes millions out of the hands of BC’s poorest kids.
Right now the provincial government is willing to hear from British Columbians on a policy that contributes to child poverty rather than alleviates it.
Every month when a single parent, mostly mothers, receiving income assistance obeys the law and reports her child support payments from her ex, the government takes every dollar away saying she “hasn’t earned it.”
Although the law says the money is the right of the child, it never gets to them because of the government. That means close to 6000 kids often go without basics like food, winter coats and boots, and school supplies even though the money is being put aside by a parent to prevent that.
This holiday season while you are thinking of those less fortunate, take a moment to write to the government to let them know you want them to reduce child poverty starting with an end to the child support clawback. It’s time BC gave its poorest kids their money back.
Send your email to both sdsifeedback@gov.bc.ca and Michelle.Mungall.MLA@leg.bc.ca and make a difference in the lives of thousands of kids right here in our part of the world.
Michelle Mungall
MLA Nelson-Creston
BCNDP Spokesperson for Social Development